Coach Ken Johnson

Head Coach

Ken Johnson is a dynamic leader with a proven track record in technology, logistics, and youth development. Over the course of his career, he has held key roles at some of the world’s most respected organizations, including AWS Web Services, Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), and Geodis Logistics, where he developed expertise in cloud solutions, enterprise technology, and supply chain management.

Beyond his corporate career, Ken is deeply committed to community impact. He is the founder and owner of the Dallas Elite Track Club, a premier youth program dedicated to developing young athletes both on and off the track. Through this organization, he mentors student-athletes, instilling discipline, resilience, and leadership skills that extend far beyond sports.

Ken combines his professional experience with his passion for service, bridging innovation, operational excellence, and youth empowerment to make a lasting difference.

Latrice Nervis

Administration

LaTrice Nervis has been part of Dallas Elite for four years, where she handles all the behind-the-scenes work, from signing up athletes to organizing track meets.

Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, LaTrice moved to Dallas in 2016 with her family. She got involved in track because of her daughters, who started club track when they were very young. To better understand their sport and help them improve, LaTrice became a USATF Level 1 certified coach and volunteered with long jump and high jump.

Now, with Dallas Elite, LaTrice wants to learn even more about organizing meets while supporting her oldest daughter in her track journey. Her dedication makes her a vital part of the team, ensuring everything runs smoothly for the athletes.

Coach Jay Shields

Sprints & Relays

Born in Chicago, IL, Coach Jay grew up in Dallas and attended Carter High School and Desoto High School. While attending both schools, he was on the basketball, football, and track teams. His passion for sports allowed him to grow at Grambling State University as the most improved Athlete and three-time SWAC Champion. His career manifested into a pro career with the AFL, playing positions like wide receiver, defensive back, and quarterback, making him a well-rounded and respected athlete.

Coach Jay wanted to give back to the community that supported him through the years. He focused his effort and energy on the youth. He chose to track and field as there was an excellent opportunity to reach so many young lives. What moved Coach Jay? I focus on providing a systematic visualization allowing our organization to strengthen every household, building a solid family foundation. No matter the economic background of each family. Everyone has a story to tell, and we want the athlete to create a legacy that can inspire the next Martin Luther King Jr. or Katherine Johnson.

• Certified UTSF Level 1

Coach Larry Robinson

Sprints & Relays

I was raised in Dallas, Texas, and grew up involved in sports like soccer, basketball, football, and track & field. My passion for track and field truly ignited when my daughter joined Dallas Elite in 2017. Inspired by her journey to the Junior Olympics, I began coaching in 2018, focusing on relay teams. Despite being new to coaching, our ten-year-old 4x100m relay team achieved national success, marking a key milestone in my career.

Coaching is about building confidence, strength, and discipline in young athletes while fostering a sense of unity. Through Dallas Elite Track Club, I’ve found not only my passion for coaching but also a supportive community to be a part of.

Coach James Dutton

Distance

I was born in Northern Michigan and started participating in track and field throwing events during middle school and throughout high school. I joined the National Guard during my senior year of high school and completed basic training shortly after graduation. The military taught me valuable lessons about physical training, nutrition, setting goals to achieve success, and never giving up. I served for 27 years in the military and spent years preparing myself and others for physical training.

Outside of the military, I volunteered to coach track and field events multiple times throughout my life. I have been an avid runner and competed in numerous 5k and 10k runs. I have worked with my daughter, who is also an avid runner, and she also participated in distance running events. I am starting my third year with Dallas Elite. I am level one USATF certified. I have coached shot put and discus for two years, with numerous athletes qualifying for the Junior Olympics. I predict this will be another incredible athletic season for Dallas Elite’s athletes and coaches.

Coach Jessica Kirkland

Hurdles

Hailing from Memphis, TN, I began my track journey as a pentathlon athlete in high school. Transitioning to Alcorn State University, I embraced hurdles and the heptathlon. After a stint as an athletic trainer for Alcorn State's football, softball, and soccer teams, my passion for track endures. Now, I'm eager to inspire the next generation of athletes with my love for the sport.